From: Femi Oyelola, Kaduna
The Union of Retired Police Officers under the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS) is set to stage a massive protest at the National Assembly on Monday, September 29, 2025, to demand better pension benefits.
According to CSP Mannir Lawal Zaria, Chairman of the Kaduna State Chapter, the protest is driven by the dire living conditions faced by retired officers, including widespread poverty, lack of access to healthcare, and inability to afford necessities.
The union has been petitioning the government and staging protests for over 15 years, seeking to exit the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS) and join the Defined Benefit Scheme (DBS).
Despite three public hearings and assurances from lawmakers, no meaningful improvements have been made.
The 9th National Assembly passed a bill to remove the Police from the CPS, but the process stalled due to disagreements between the House of Representatives and the Senate.
Also, National Pension Commission (PENCOM) offered incentives, including a 200% gratuity increase, 75% monthly pensions, N758 billion disbursement, and improved health insurance.
However, the union rejected these proposals, insisting on a complete exit from the CPS.
Delegates from 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) will converge on the National Assembly to demand a total exit from the CPS and the establishment of a Police Pension Board. CSP Lawal has urged members nationwide to participate fully in the protest.
